Peer Recovery Specialist ( Recovery Academy

Overview

Chesterfield Recovery Academy (CRA) is seeking a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) to join the Clinical Team. The position is fully on-site and requires flexibility and a passion for working with adolescents with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. The CPRS will collaborate to provide and facilitate recovery support and accountability for students at CRA.

High school diploma or GED (bachelor’s degree in human services or related field preferred). Completion of the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) training curriculum through the Virginia Certification Board (VCB) is mandatory. One year of experience in peer/recovery support services or related behavioral health work, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience with co-occurring disorders preferred; lived experience with a substance use disorder preferred;

full-sustained recovery from all substances for a minimum of two years preferred. Verbal and written fluency in both English and Spanish encouraged.

Working knowledge of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness. Ability to support others in recovery and demonstrate self‑directed recovery efforts. Effective advocacy for consumer perspective within the community and mental health system. Personal computer and related software proficiency. Strong oral and written communication. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers. Knowledge of trauma‑informed care and multiple pathways to recovery, including harm reduction preferred.

Self‑identified current or former recipient of mental health services for a severe and persistent mental illness. Pre‑employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check, and education/degree verification required. This position is considered Safety Sensitive and subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

• Collaborate with clinicians and educators to develop and facilitate recovery‑oriented group and classroom curriculum for adolescents in the high school setting and respond to mental health support needs within the school.
• Provide guidance and support for educational and emotional issues.
• Participate in developing and implementing behavior management program, including behavior management recording system, behavior contracts, and action plans with students.
• Coordinate services with and make referrals to other appropriate community programs and resources as needed.
• Monitor and assess consumer progress and make recommendations or modifications to treatment plan.
• Prepare and maintain casework documentation as required in the delivery of services (e.g., case histories, assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, correspondence).
• Serve as part of a multidisciplinary team to review cases, treatment approaches, clinical issues, client progress and treatment recommendations, and to promote a recovery perspective.
• Act as a recovery agent by providing and advocating for effective recovery‑based services; assist consumers by educating them about community and natural supports and demonstrate how to utilize these in the recovery process.
• Perform other work as required.

Monday – Friday; 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Mental Health Support Services.